Bach: The Neumeister Chorales

2010

“These 38 chorale preludes come from a collection of 83 pieces compiled in the 18th century by Johann Gottfried Neumeister that eventually made its way to Yale University, where it was discovered by the Bach scholar Christoph Wolff. Bach's preludes are early works, and as Wolff so aptly wrote: 'Already there is innovation. There's a degree of originality and sophistication that is really quite remarkable.' Herrick gives clear, attractive performances with rhythmic articulation and lively ornamentation. Some listeners may find his playing too calculated and self-conscious, but these are sprightly readings, free of excessive mannerism. The most enjoyable aspect of the CD is the way Herrick gives each chorale prelude its own distinct sound world, despite having only a nine-stop, one-manual Metzler organ.
This instrument is one of the most beautiful organs imaginable, and Herrick achieves a pleasing variety of colour. Some may find the organ a little too closely miked.”